Impact of Social Support on Mental Health Status and Psychological Well-being Among Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Fakai lga Kebbi State, Nigeria
Likita Ibrahim
Ogah A. T.
Kpalo S. Y.
Abstract
Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are often exposed to traumatic experiences, loss of social networks, and poor living conditions, which place them at high risk of mental health challenges and reduced psychological well-being. Understanding the role of social support and mental health status is therefore critical in improving their overall well-being. This study examined the influence of social support and mental health status on psychological well-being among internally displaced persons (IDPS) in Fakai L.G.A of Kebbi State, Nigeria. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which social support and mental health status influence psychological well-being among internally displaced persons. Survey design was adopted for the study. 265 participants consisting of (Male: N = 143, and Female: N = 122, 47.3%) were randomly selected using convenient sampling technique. The instruments used for the study were the Psychological Well-being Scale, Mental Health Scale, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Data collected were analyzed using linear regression and multiple regression analysis to test the hypotheses. The results revealed that social support had a significant impact on psychological well-being among Internally Displaced Persons (β = .478; t = 7.798; F = 60.814; Sig = .000; p < .01). Second hypothesis indicated that there is a significant influence of mental health on psychological well-being (β = .396; t = 6.172; F = 38.096; Sig = .000; p < .01). Also, findings from the third hypothesis showed that social support and mental health jointly influenced psychological well-being among internally displaced persons in Fakai L.G.A of Kebbi State, Nigeria. The findings were discussed in line with other related works, and it was recommended, among others, that appropriate psychosocial interventions and social support systems should be strengthened to enhance the psychological well-being of internally displaced persons.
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